His Sheep

 

Jesus saw the many people and felt sorry for them because they were worried and helpless—like sheep without a shepherd to lead them. – Matthew 9:36 (ERV)

Sheep are the animals most mentioned in the Bible. They are described as lost, blessed, thirsty, hungry, fat, lean, separated from goats, blemished, unblemished, sacrificed, scattered, wandering, innocent, harmless, confused, easily strayed, offered upon the altar, found, rescued, led, exalted, eaten, gathered, persecuted, in need of feeding, helpless, fearful, responding to their name, protected, anointed, knowing the shepherd’s voice, righteous, known by the shepherd…

We are all these and more, since Psalm 100:3, describes us as the sheep of the Lord’s pasture.

Hebrews 13:20 tells us that Jesus is that great Shepherd of the sheep.

Therefore, we, as the sheep of the Great Shepherd, are to look to Jesus as the provider of all our needs. Only Jesus can thoroughly satisfy us in every way and in every aspect of our lives. Jesus’ deep love and undeniable care for us is clearly reflected in the words of Psalm 23.

As it is written,

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. – Psalm 23:1 (NIV)

Now, beloved, continue reading and reflecting upon Psalm 23 and pray that the Lord will grant you a deep revelation of who you really are as “the sheep of His pasture”.

Amen †

 

 

 

Shelley Johnson “His Sheep” ©2012 (02-10-12) revisited October 16, 2026

Avad

In translating the bible to English different words were used to translate the same Hebrew word. One such Hebrew word is “avad”, where in some versions of the bible it’s translated as “worship” and in others as “serve”.

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘This is what the Lord says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me. – Exodus 8:1 (NIV)

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘Thus says the Lord, “Let My people go, so that they may serve Me. – Exodus 8:1 (AMP)

Same verse, different words; we see this happening throughout the bible depending on the version we read. So, which is it? Is it “worship” or is it “serve”? Because aren’t these two words describing two different things?

According to Google, to worship is the act of showing reverence, honor, devotion, and supreme worth to a divine being, or holding someone or something in deep, extravagant love and admiration, while to serve is to perform duties, work for, or provide something useful to a person, organization, or purpose.

But how does the bible define worship and service?

When it comes to the One True Living God, worship expresses itself in adoration, thanksgiving and service to Him. To worship God is to serve Him and not only by singing songs on a Sunday morning in church. It’s our responding to God with our entire lives.

When we worship God in service to Him, in what ever form that service may take, it demonstrates the depth of our devotion. Jacob’s service to Laban (Genesis 29:27; 30:36) or Joseph’s service to Pharoah (Genesis 41:46) are mere echoes of how we are to serve God.

But maybe you don’t want to serve the Lord. You must choose for yourselves today. Today you must decide who you will serve. Will you serve the gods that your ancestors worshiped when they lived on the other side of the Euphrates River? Or will you serve the gods of the Amorites who lived in this land? You must choose for yourselves. But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord. – Joshua 24:15 (ERV)

“Avad” dominates Joshua’s admonition. This wasn’t a religious puff piece but a wholehearted declaration of allegiance to God.

Look at how Jesus Himself used the word “avad”. 

If anyone serves Me, he must [continue to faithfully] follow Me [without hesitation, holding steadfastly to Me, conforming to My example in living…If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. – John 12:26 (AMP)

It wasn’t long before early Christians apprehended Jesus’ concept of “avad”.

You see, Hebrew words don’t just describe an action, they also describe the outcome of that action. Serving God isn’t simply about performing a task in church; to serve Him is much deeper than that. God desires for us to encounter His manifest presence through our worship.

God is spirit [the Source of life, yet invisible to mankind], and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. – John 4:24 (AMP)

Beloved, “avad” does not denote passivity, it involves action and though service and worship are distinct, “avad” incorporates them both. The connection between service and worship is undeniable; every day your worship of God should take the form of service.

It’s not enough to worship once a week or serve every now and again, “avad” is about surrendering yourself completely to God in worship and in service.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Avad” © 2026 October 14, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

His Grace is Sufficient for you

 

Throughout your life you will be faced with difficult circumstances from time to time and when these difficulties arise the Lord does not want you to focus on them, instead He has given you the assurance that His grace is sufficient for you, for His power is made perfect in weakness.

“My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 AMP)

Beloved, during the difficult times, look away from the difficulty and fix your eyes and keep them fixed on Jesus, for He will empower you with His all-sufficient grace so that you may have the strength needed to endure the temporary hardship.

Amen †

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shelley Johnson “His Grace is Sufficient for you” ©2013 (4-Jun-13) revisited October 14, 2026

There’s more to Grace

 

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father. – Colossians 1:1-2 (NIV)

Several New Testament writers, particularly Paul, would begin or end their letters with the blessing of grace.

When it comes to an explanation for grace, two verses taken from Ephesians chapter two are often quoted.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. – Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

Grace is, therefore, the medium through which God has effected the salvation of all believers. We do nothing to earn or warrant such a gift, it is the degree of favour, God determined to extend to all who have faith in His Son Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour.

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. – Titus 2:11 (NIV)

Grace has come to signify the unmerited favour of God to us human beings.

But there’s more to grace. Ephesians 2:8 & 9 are the familiar verses but there is another verse that sums it all up.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

Looking at this verse, it may seem to contradict the preceding verses as it says that we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works yet just before, we are told that we aren’t saved by works. It is certainly not a contradiction.

The good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do aren’t of our own doing and the works, so that no one can boast in verse 9 are of our own doing (read Romans 4).

God is the One who equips us with more than enough grace to accomplish the good works of verse 10. Everything we do must be based on and rooted in this gift of grace. The grace of God can overcome any limitation or shortcoming.

Grace takes us from the realm of limitation and works to the realm of no limitation and good works which is the realm of heavenly power.

Paul had a limitation. Three times he pleaded for God to remove it, but God did not, instead He told him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV). Then Paul wrote,

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Grace is not only the unmerited favour of God, grace is also an empowerment from God.

We are completely incapable of doing good works without the empowerment of grace. Attempting to do works apart from God is engaging in works of the flesh which do not operate effectively.

It is very important for us to apprehend the empowerment of grace we have been offered through Jesus Christ.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. – Romans 5:1-2 (NIV)

There’s more to grace, as grace also enables the believer to persevere in the Christian life.

Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. – Acts 20:32 (NIV)

Additionally, grace can refer to the capacity for the reception of divine life.

Regarding this salvation, the prophets who prophesied about the grace [of God] that was intended for you, searched carefully and inquired [about this future way of salvation], seeking to find out what person or what time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He foretold the sufferings of Christ and the glories [destined] to follow. – 1 Peter 1:10-11 (AMP)

Beloved, grace is not merely a one-time gift of God that secures your eternal salvation, there’s more to grace as it is the proverbial gift that keeps on giving.

Grace empowers you to do good works and enables you to persevere and gives you the mental, physical and spiritual ability to receive, experience and maintain your salvation throughout your life.

And now,

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you... (2 Corinthians 13:14 NIV)

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “There’s more to Grace” © 2026 October 12, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

What about Quartus?

 

What’s in a name?

God instituted a timeless tradition when He named the first human Adam. Since then, humans have been given names.

We are all intrinsically unique and being given a name just adds to our individuality and identity. Names once held much greater meaning than they do today and in Old Testament times, names were only given to persons in positions of authority. The person’s name signified that they were appointed a particular position, function or relationship.

For instance, as Rachel lay dying after giving birth, with her last breath, she named her son Benon, “son of my sorrow”, however Jacob, changed his name to Benjamin, “son who will be fortunate” (ref. Genesis 35:18).

Names were often determined by circumstances at the time of birth or changed as one’s status changed.

King Neco made Josiah's son Eliakim king of Judah as successor to Josiah, and changed his name to Jehoiakim – 2 Kings 23:34 (GNT)

God changed Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai to Sarah, signifying a change to their destiny and in the same way, Jacob became Israel.

Other than position, function or relationship, people were named for animals, tribes, precious things, plants, characteristics, historical events and even for the work that they did. Names were sometimes connected to a promise or an aspiration.

In those days, people were given one name but by New Testament times, there was a slight change to that practice; having a personal and family name became common. Descriptive phrases were added and in this bilingual culture, names were used interchangeably.

Then he took Simon to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “Your name is Simon son of John, but you will be called Cephas.” (This is the same as Peter and means “a rock.”) – John 1:42 (GNT)

Where Cephas is Aramaic, Peter is Greek and both mean “rock”.

Now, Apostle Paul, who was charged with converting the Gentiles had made his way to Corinth, this was his third missionary journey. While there he was compelled to write to the church in Rome which was facing challenges related to Jewish/Gentile issues.

Near the end of his epistle he wrote,

My host Gaius, in whose house the church meets, sends you his greetings; Erastus, the city treasurer, and our brother Quartus send you their greetings. – Romans 16: 23 (GNT)

Here we have three names, Gaius, Erastus and Quartus who all sent their greetings.

Gaius, who we are told, hosted Paul and the Church in Corinth, must have been a Roman citizen since his personal name is of Latin origin, meaning “one who rejoices”.

The city treasurer bore the Greek name, Erastus which means “beloved”. Erastus may have been a freed slave; freedmen were often given positions to steward the city’s properties or manage the city’s financial affairs. Though former slaves, these men were often wealthy.

What about Quartus? While Paul gave brief but pertinent background information on Gaius and Erastus, Quartus is simply identified as, our brother. Quartus is the Roman word for “fourth”.

It was a common Roman practice to name children based on their order of birth, especially those children born to enslaved mothers. It is believed that Quartus was such a child. Under Roman rule, he was neither considered a citizen nor worthy of a proper name as the child of an enslaved woman. As far as Rome was concerned, a number was good enough.

Similarly, numerical names like Primus, “first”, Secundus “second” and Tertius “third”, were all derived from this Roman naming tradition.

Whoever was Quartus’ owner at birth, could never have imagined that this child identified only by a number meant to relegate him to a life of obscurity, would have lived on for thousands of years in the pages of the bible.

Quartus, like so many others in the bible, is only mentioned once but once is more than enough to validate him. The mere fact that the apostle considers him a brother speaks volumes. Quartus undoubtedly was a valued member of the Corinthian Christian community.

Beloved, your name is integral to who you are. The name that you now bear has meaning to God and even if others don’t know your name, God knows your name.

The gatekeeper opens the gate for him; the sheep hear his voice as he calls his own sheep by name, and he leads them out. – John 10:3 (GNT)

Your name distinguishes you just as Quartus’ name, though meant to identify him as a nobody, still distinguished him as somebody. God also knew his name and if you didn’t before, now you know his name too.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “What about Quartus?” © 2026 October 11, 2026

 

 

Blessed

 

Question: “How are you?”

Answer: “Blessed”

How many times have you asked someone that question and that was their answer? And, how many times have you been asked that question and that was your answer?

When persons say that they are blessed, what do they mean?

Do they claim to be blessed because they consider themselves better off than others?

Is their answer “Blessed” because they think it demonstrates godliness?

Do people say that they are blessed because they believe it’s a right response?

Is giving “Blessed” as the answer to that question simply trendy?

When persons answer “Blessed”, is it because they honestly believe that they are blessed?

Here are some verses from the Word,

The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed – Proverbs 11:25 (MSG)

When was the last time you truly blessed someone? Not with lip service but with genuine words and actions.

“Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” – Luke 11:28 (ESV)

Have you been hearing the Word and keeping it?

Jesus said that it’s the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, who are blessed, and He also said, when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account, you’re blessed (see Matthew 5:1-11)

Do any of these relate to you? Are you the peacemaker?

Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that’s your job, to bless. You’ll be a blessing and also get a blessing. – 1 Peter 3:8-9 (MSG)

Again, do you fit the bill? Do you bless rather than retaliate?

remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘You will have a greater blessing when you give than when you receive.’” – Acts 20:35 (ERV)

Are you hard-pressed to give but looking to get? Are you reluctant to donate but seeking favour? Are you receiving a salary but dropping only a dollar into the collection basket? Do you respond to people’s needs, or do you just ask God to bless you by responding to your needs?

If you don’t give of yourself in any way, how can you expect to receive a greater blessing?

Seeking God and walking in His ways leads to His blessings.

Abraham was now very old, and the Lord had blessed him in every way. – Genesis 1:24 (NIV)

So the Lord blessed Job in the second half of his life – Job 42:12 (NLT)

Beloved, to be blessed is a divine pronouncement of favour and the assurance of grace that God bestows upon you, so when you answer “Blessed” be sure that you know what being blessed entails.

“Blessed” carries great responsibility.

Much is required from those to whom much is given, for their responsibility is greater. – Luke 12:48 (TLB)

“Blessed” is not a word to be bandied about for your good pleasure; contrary to what many believe, it’s rarely tied to things that are visible.

Let us give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! For in our union with Christ he has blessed us by giving us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly world. – Ephesians 1:3 (GNT)

“Blessed” speaks of a life lived at a much higher level from a place within you at a much deeper level.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Blessed” © 2026 October 10, 2026

 

 

 

What about Azubah?

 

Azubah, not a familiar name to most I’m sure, but for me and my family, we knew that name well. Azubah was the name of one of my aunts.

The name Azubah appears in 1 Chronicles 2:18-19, as the name of Caleb’s wife, and in 1 Kings 22:42 and 2 Chronicles 20:31, king Jehoshaphat’s mother.

Neither of these women is afforded any extraordinary accolades, however, the influence the king’s mother must have had on him must not be overlooked.

Jehoshaphat ruled over the country of Judah. He was 35 years old when he became king, and he ruled 25 years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name was Azubah, the daughter of Shilhi. – 2 Chronicles 20:31 (ERV)

You see, king Jehoshaphat was outstanding for his godliness and he, understanding the importance of knowing the only true God, sent out princes, priests and Levites to teach the people the Law of the Lord.

During the third year of Jehoshaphat’s rule, he sent his leaders to teach in the towns of Judah…These leaders, Levites, and priests taught the people in Judah. They had the Book of the Law of the Lord with them. They went through all the towns of Judah and taught the people. – (2 Chronicles 17:7&9 (ERV)

It’s no secret that mothers, by far, have the most influence on their children and just as my Aunt Azuba impacted the lives of her children, there is no doubt that Jehoshaphat’s mother, Azubah, would have impacted his.

Other than being the mother of Jehoshaphat, the wife of king Asa and the daughter of Shilhi, we aren’t told much more about Azubah. So, everything else we can garner about her is pure supposition based solely on the uprightness of her son.

Taking a cue from Jehoshaphat, we can easily attribute the godly characteristics he displayed to his mother Azubah.

Azubah was not in the spotlight but to be the wife of a king who fought against idolatry and the mother of a king who destroyed all the pagan places of worship and the symbols of the goddess Asherah in Judah (2 Chronicles 17:6 GNT) and ensured that the Law of the Lord was taught throughout the land, says a great deal about this woman without saying a word about her.

This barely mentioned woman was a queen who birthed a legacy by raising a son who walked by faith at all costs, obeyed godly counsel, was unyielding in his commitment to righteousness, unwavering in his dependence on God, and trusted wholeheartedly in God’s faithfulness to provide, to protect and to give victory.

Jehoshaphat’s prayer, recorded in 2 Chronicles 20 gives credence to his faith in God.

O our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless against this great multitude which is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You. – 2 Chronicles 20:12 (AMP)

Surely, Azubah would have been the one to instil all these virtues into her son; she must’ve been the one to teach him not to give into failure, defeat or limitations.

Azubah must have been the one who taught Jehoshaphat about God and the importance of developing and maintaining a sound relationship with Him.

As the mother of a future king, Azubah would have prepared her son to carry the weight of a nation, not from a military standpoint but through compassion, love and treating people fairly no matter their social standing.

Beloved, the bible did not give us much to work with regarding Azubah, but the fact that she was named let’s us know that she played an essential role in the reformation and reshaping of Judah as a wife and a mother of kings.

Azubah must have possessed a silent strength and resilience. There is much we can learn from such a woman who left us a great example of godliness in her son, Jehoshaphat.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “What about Azubah?” © 2026 October 9, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entirely for God’s glory

 

photo courtesy Tricia Stephens-Joseph

The first seven verses of John chapter nine recounts Jesus’ healing of a man who was born blind. When asked by His disciples the cause for the man’s condition, Jesus responded with, he was born blind in order that the workings of God should be manifested (displayed and illustrated) in him (John 9:3 AMPC).

The cause of his blindness was entirely for God’s glory.

Not only was this man born blind to display the indescribable workings of God, but Isaiah 43:7 is very clear in that, we were all created for God’s glory.

Even everyone who is called by My name, whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, whom I have made. (AMPC)

We know the importance of giving God glory (see Revelation 4:10-11), but we must also know the importance of bringing Him glory.

As Apostle Paul told the Corinthians,

So then, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you may do, do all for the honor and glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31 AMPC)

Everything you do, no matter what it is, must be done entirely for God’s glory.

Our finite minds cannot truly grasp the awesomeness that is the glory of God. When the apostle, in his letter to the Ephesians speaks of the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints (1:18), do we, even as God’s people, comprehend its profoundness?

The thing is, whether we get it or not, we can understand that each of us has a part to play in God’s eternal plan. You and I were created entirely for God’s glory – for His glory to be manifested, displayed and illustrated in and through us.

We must do our part to bring God glory.

If you preach, ensure that whatever you say is entirely for God’s glory.

If you evangelize, make sure that your sharing is entirely for God’s glory.

If you are a missionary, ensure that your service is entirely for God’s glory.

Whatever your ministry may be, make sure that it is entirely for God’s glory.

Beloved, the heavens declare the glory of God (Psalm 19:1a) and so should you in all that you do. You are called by His name, created for His glory.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Entirely for God’s glory” © 2026 October 8, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

Born that way

My right eye doesn’t work well; from it, every image is blurred but colours and shapes are recognizable. Looking at me, you’ll never know. I had always known this about myself, and so, as a child, I simply took it for granted.

It wasn’t until I was about eleven, when my left eye, strained from carrying the workload, started to weaken and I began having trouble seeing the blackboard at school, that my mother found out about my deformity, after a visit to the optician.

I could see her dismay, as my mom asked if anything could be done to correct my vision. With apologetic tenderness, the optician responded, “No, she was born that way.”

While Jesus was walking, he saw a man who had been blind since the time he was born. Jesus’ followers asked him, “Teacher, why was this man born blind? Whose sin made it happen? Was it his own sin or that of his parents?”

Jesus answered, “It was not any sin of this man or his parents that caused him to be blind. He was born blind so that he could be used to show what great things God can do. – John 9:1-3 (ERV)

This unnamed man that Jesus encountered along His walk was born blind; he had absolutely no vision. He could neither see shapes nor colours. He had been born that way.

Clearly, from the followers’ reaction, they could barely fathom that sin was not the cause of the man’s blindness. Someone must have sinned in some way, the man’s parents or the man himself. But that was not the case. This man was not being punished for his sin or the sin of his parents.

The cause of his deformity was entirely for God’s glory.

Beloved, you may not have been born with a physical deformity but there may be something in your life that you consider a “deformity”; something that you perceive as a hindrance to your existence or your progress in life.

Some crippling experience from childhood that’s impacted you your entire life. Whether it’s an actual physical abnormality or a person who has had a paralyzing effect on you, the reason for it just might be more than you ever imagined.

Perhaps you, like the man along Jesus’ way, are being used by God to show what great things He can do? It probably hasn’t happened yet but eventually it will.

God often does things in mysterious ways, ways which we don’t understand. Why don’t you reach out to Him? Ask Him to show you how you can be used to demonstrate His glory despite your “deformity”.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Born that way” © 2026 October 7, 2026

 

 

Is Religion Necessary?: Food for Thought.

 

What is religion? Here’s a rather broad definition that I came across…

a belief in a divine being or divine beings and the practices and moral code that result from that belief

A Google search gave me,

a shared system of beliefs, values, and practices that connect people to a god, gods, or the supernatural

A simple definition describes religion as a system of faith and worship

While my Bible dictionary says that the word religion is derived from the Latin verb religare which means “to hold, restrain”. It goes on to say that it came to be applied to the services and ritual and rules by which faith in and devotion to deity were expressed but it didn’t indicate why or how from a verb meaning to hold or restrain, we got to this context.

There are so many religions in the world. There are monotheistic religions – belief in one god; polytheistic religions – belief in many gods; and for those who believe in a chief god with lesser gods and goddesses, there are henotheistic religions.

And then there are all the various denominations attached to the religion of Christianity. It’s mind boggling.

To the church at Philippi, Apostle Paul wrote,

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves – Philippians 2:1-3 (NIV)

This bible verse demonstrates how the Christian religion was supposed to be, however, over the years Christians have used religion to justify some of the world’s most horrendous atrocities and even in more recent times the religion has sparked battle-worthy conflicts, even among members of the same denomination.

As a people called Christians, let’s focus our attention on our religion – a morsel of food for thought.

For those united with Christ, we seem to have moved away from the Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves state of like-mindedness to a “what I want from God” mindset.  

People seem to have more faith in the system of religion than in God Himself. In ancient Hebrew, there is no word for religion, and it makes you wonder if we were ever meant to classify the Way of Jesus Christ, a religion.

People love to ask, “What religion are you?” when what they really want to know is your denomination, but why does that matter so much to some?

You and I as Christians believe in the same God. How does “religion” factor in. Why the need to know?

Religion has divided us – Methodists and Catholics and Pentecostals and Evangelicals and Adventists and Moravians – when in fact, we all have one foundational belief. We all believe in the One True Living God, we all believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

So, I ask the question, is religion necessary?

Matthew 18:20 (NIV), records Jesus as saying,

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

This being so, can two or three gather in Jesus’ name without involving religion? Is religion, in the way it’s commonly practiced today, beside the point?

Before anyone starts turning somersaults, I am not suggesting that we all abandon church, but I am questioning the way we do church under the banner of Christianity.

Because according to what Paul said to the church in Philippi, I don’t see it in church nowadays and I’m not the only one. I listen to others who’ve made the same observation and sadly it stems from the clergy, from the head and trickles down.

The common sharing in the Spirit, tenderness and compassion, being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind are all hard to find within the church.

Have we become so connected to the religion that we’ve lost our connection to God?

Religion has turned transactional – do this and you’re guaranteed a reward, a blessing – instead of relational, where it’s all about our relationship, love and service to God and others with no thought of “what will I get in return”.

Beloved, if all your “doing” is for your own benefit, to look good or be in a position of note, then you are simply practicing religion and not demonstrating to anyone what being united with Christ is about.

You have a responsibility to be true to your relationship with God; don’t let religion get in the way of that.

 

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Is Religion Necessary?: Food for Thought.” © 2026 October 6, 2026

 

 

 

Purpose

 

For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, ready to be used] for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand [taking paths which He set], so that we would walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us].  – Ephesians 2:10 (AMP)

God created you for purpose. Everyone has a purpose for being here, you weren’t created by chance. You may think it hard to believe that God needs you, but you are significant and play an important role in God’s plan, especially when you’ve been reborn from above – spiritually transformed, renewed – you are certainly ready to be used.

You must understand that you have purpose – a mission here in this earthly, physical realm that has a great effect and impacts the spiritual realm.

Too many of us like to say over and over again that we have no purpose; if you are one of those persons, perhaps you’re trying to find purpose in what rather than Who.

This stems from the self-seeking mindset that we all seem to possess. The thing is, we all have needs – we need food, we need water, we need clothes, we need a job, we need money, we need more time, we need to exercise, we need to sleep, we need to go to church, we need and we need and we need this and that and some more of that. Frankly, our list of needs is exhausting.

In actual fact, what we do need is to become persons who aren’t driven by self-serving needs. According to the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians, the point of life isn’t to get everything we need; that should never be our fixation.

After all, Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:31-33 (AMP),

do not worry or be anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted), saying, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’…for your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.

Do you see on Whom you should be focused?

Jesus and Paul are pointing in similar directions. Our primary purpose for which we were created is to serve God, not ourselves.

Beloved, God knows every material thing that you need. He knows what is necessary for you to survive here on earth. However, He needs you to understand, like Mary of Bethany, that only one thing is necessary (read Luke 10:38-42). That one thing is to align yourself with divine intent.

For this, you need to let go of being religious, focus on God and fulfil the purpose for which you were created – serving Him, taking the path which He set, and living the life which He prearranged and made ready for you.

Start serving God and stop endlessly striving to get something from Him. You’re here to help Him as an integral part of His eternal plan. Ask God how you could be of service to Him.

Remember always that it’s His plan, His purpose and your privilege to be a part of it.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Purpose” © 2026 October 5, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

When the enemy is at the table

 

Faced with challenges of one sort or another, we pray asking God to take them away and there are times when He does and there are times when He does not.

Three times Apostle Paul pleaded with the Lord to remove a thorn in [his] flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment [him] (ref. 2 Corinthians 12:7-8).

It’s not always God’s will to simply remove our enemy, as He chooses to try us and purify us by means of that enemy.

Sometimes it’s the only way to strengthen our faith and lead us into spiritual maturity; maturing can be very painful.

David must have understood this when he wrote You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies (Psalm 23:5). However, other verses in Psalm 23 reveal that that was not the only thing David understood.

Throughout this beloved psalm, David never once asked God to get rid of his enemy, in fact he acknowledged that his enemies were very present.

David knew that even though his enemies posed clear and present danger, the Lord being his Shepherd, he was well-protected and provided for. From the jump he made that declaration,

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.

David had an acute comprehension of what Jesus said in Matthew 10:28 (CEV),

Don't be afraid of people. They can kill you, but they cannot harm your soul. Instead, you should fear God who can destroy both your body and your soul in hell.

David did not have a fear of people but a reverential fear of God and that is why despite all that he’d done, God could testify that he was a man after my own heart (see Acts 13:22).

He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

David obviously knew that he was from God and [had] overcome them, for he who is in [him] is greater than he who is in the world (see 1 John 4:4) so, he did not possess a spirit of fear and timidity but of power.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Unlike you and me, God’s Spirit, the Comforter, was not in David but was with David for he proclaimed to God, you anoint my head with oil.

In the ancient Middle East, the shepherd rubbed oil on his sheep to keep harmful pests, like flies, away; David considered himself the Lord’s sheep. In the Old Testament, to be anointed with oil is symbolic of the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

We see in Psalm 133 that the anointing is correlated to the unity of spiritual brethren.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!  It is like the precious oil [of consecration] poured on the head

The Good Shepherd anoints His sheep with the Holy Spirit to protect us from the enemy, even in the presence of that enemy.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

God blesses us in the presence of our enemies.

That with the outpouring came the promise of lifelong Presence, was not lost on David; he had no doubt that God’s goodness, lovingkindness and steadfast love were his constant companions.

Surely goodness and mercy and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life,
And I shall dwell forever [throughout all my days] in the house and in the presence of the Lord.

Beloved, Psalm 23 is assurance that even when the enemy is at the table with you, there is no need to fear.

David was not fearful, because he was keenly aware of the anointing of the Holy Spirit upon him and was therefore confident of His presence.

After his transgression, as seen in Psalm 51, David beseeched God,

Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me

You are better off than David because the Holy Spirit is not just with you, the Holy Spirit, God’s own Spirit, lives within you because of Jesus’ sacrifice.

Please understand that fear causes you to feel disconnected; fear dampens your faith, spiralling you into a state of unbelief.

In fear is exactly where the enemy wants you to remain, as your own fear steals your reward (see Matthew 25:24-29) and makes you blind to your true spiritual authority and power.

There are no excuses for fear, even when the enemy is at the table, for the Spirit of God is in you.

So, beloved, keep walking through the sunless valley of the shadow of death without fear, confident that the light of the Comforter is shining from within you, His rod is protecting you and His staff is guiding you through.

 

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “When the enemy is at the table” © 2026 October 3, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

Betrothal

 

Betrothal? I can almost hear some people’s questioning of this archaic word, which is defined as, a formal, mutual promise or contract between two people to get married in the future. In other words, it’s getting engaged.

Usually, before the proposal, the guy would go to the girl’s father to ask for her hand in marriage, once the father agrees, the guy would then propose, place a ring on the girl’s finger and that would signify that they’re engaged – a promise to marry.

Under our modern Western influence, there’s dating, engagement then marriage but in Jesus’ day in Israel, the tradition was, and still is in other parts of the world, slightly different.

Similarly, the guy would leave his father’s house to go to the girl’s father’s house but then he would offer her father a price to marry her. The two would then engage in haggling and only if they came to an agreement on the price, would it be paid and a covenant made.

Then, to seal the deal, so to speak, the groom and bride would drink from a single cup of wine; this symbolized their shared life of their new covenant. That was the betrothal.

Jesus’ promise to His disciples at the “Last Supper”, was also a betrothal.

There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. – John 14:2-3 (NLT)

Jesus left His Father’s house, came to our house on this earthly plain (see John 6:38 &16:28a) and paid a hefty price for His bride – the Church, us as a whole and us as individuals. The price Jesus paid to share His Life with you and with me, was His own blood.

When in Luke 22:20 (NASB), Jesus, in the upper room with His disciples, took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup, which is poured out for you, is the new covenant in My blood”, He ratified the agreement with them and by extension all of mankind in a heavenly betrothal.

Beloved, even though Jesus paid the highest price possible for all mankind, it’s still up to mankind to accept His proposal. It’s still up to you and me to say “Yes” to Him.

To the members of the church in Ephesus, Apostle Paul wrote,

As the Scriptures say, “A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.” This is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. – Ephesians 5:31-32 (NLT)

But you can’t be united into one with Jesus if you don’t accept that first step of betrothal. And if you have already accepted but find yourself sliding back, that’s okay because Jesus’ purchase makes provision for that too, once you’re willing to return to Him. After all, God Himself said,

“Return, faithless people…for I am your husband. I will choose you…” – Jeremiah 3:14 (NIV)

God has chosen you and will always choose you.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Betrothal” © 2026 October 3, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Following the Law

 

In Apostle Paul’s letter to the church in Colossae he wrote,

Because we broke God’s laws, we owed a debt—a debt that listed all the rules we failed to follow. But God forgave us of that debt. He took it away and nailed it to the cross.

But what was he referring to? He was referring to the Law of Moses which Christ fulfilled when He was nailed to the cross. Yes, Jesus fulfilled that Law at Calvary yet we Christians are constantly trying to resurrect it in one form or another.

Understand that Colossians 2:14 isn’t a suggestion but a Truth; the law has been superceded by the New Covenant. So, why are so many still insistent on following the Law?

The Law of Moses was to reveal sin – it was a covenant of flesh; it exposed evil and the need for a saviour but was not intended then and is not intended now as a means of salvation.

Reading Deuteronomy chapter 28, we see that all the blessings and curses relate to things of this world. Only those who were able to observe and keep every iota of the law would receive it’s promises, otherwise it became a curse.

‘Cursed is the one who does not support this law and agree to obey it.’ – Deuteronomy 27:26 (ERV)

Even Paul had to remind the “foolish” Galatians of this fact,

But people who depend on following the law to make them right are under a curse. As the Scriptures say, “They must do everything that is written in the law. If they do not always obey, they are under a curse.” – Galatians 3:10 (ERV)

You see, even though the Apostle had told them very clearly about the death of Jesus Christ on the cross, it seemed that they had been bewitched into forgetting its meaning (see Galatians 3:1ERV).

Their belief was estranging them from Jesus as Paul pointed out,

If you try to be made right with God through the law, your life with Christ is finished—you have left God’s grace. – Galatians 5:4 (ERV)

Though the Law in itself was holy, righteous and good (see Romans 7:12), it was limited in its provision.

No one could keep this law unless they were a perfect person so, that counts every single human being out. The perfect Man fulfilled the law. The law was not partially dealt with as some want us to believe; it wasn’t divided, it wasn’t separated or portioned out.

Christ ended the law with its many commands and rules – Ephesians 2:15 (ERV)

With every nail piercing, Jesus took the law unto Himself. He totally and perfectly fulfilled the law.

Beloved, do not let anyone bewitch you. The Law of Moses became obsolete on the cross at Calvary. Following the law is to bring a curse upon yourself as you could never keep it. Following the law is a slap in Jesus’ face as, by doing so you are in effect saying that you do not believe the Gospel of Christ.

Jesus Christ’s death heralded a New Covenant of grace which is a greater law placed in your mind and written on your heart (see Jeremiah 31:33). This is the Law of Christ (see Galatians 6:2), the Perfect Law of Liberty.

But when you look into God’s perfect law that sets people free, pay attention to it. If you do what it says, you will have God’s blessing. Never just listen to his teaching and forget what you heard – James 1:25 (ERV)

Under this Law you must be led by the Spirit and not by religious ordinances penned by man.

Don’t let anyone convince you to follow any law of fleshly works, instead, dive deep into the Word for yourself under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, so that you may gain a better understanding of the incredible depths of what Jesus has already done for you.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Following the Law” © 2026 October 2, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

Losing Jesus

 

Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends. (Luke 2:44 NIV)

For three days Mary and Joseph could not find Jesus. The festival was over and they were on their way back home from Jerusalem. Eleven years they’d done this journey and were not in the habit of losing Jesus so, what changed?

For eleven years, Jesus was subjected to His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, but now He was twelve. A twelve-year-old Hebrew boy is a boy heading into manhood; a boy who, under Jewish law, is about to become Bar Mitzvah.

This age is the beginning of true understanding where the ability to think more deeply, morally and spiritually, is gained. At twelve, Jesus could now expose His authentic self. So, that’s why this Passover festival in Jerusalem was different.

That’s why Jesus was sitting in the Temple area with the religious teachers, listening and asking them questions (Luke 2:46 ERV).

That’s why Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and wise answers (Luke 2:47 ERV).

That’s why when Mary asked Him “Why…”, He could have answered, “Why did you have to look for me? You should have known that I must be where my Father’s work is.” (Luke 2:49 ERV).

After all they’d experienced and thought they knew, Joseph and Mary still did not understand what Jesus had meant. Mary was still thinking about all these things (Luke 2:51 ERV) on the journey home.

And though Jesus went with them to Nazareth and obeyed them (Luke 2:51 ERV), they were unaware that they were still losing Jesus.

You may be on your own spiritual journey for quite some time but now, it feels as though you’re losing Jesus so, what changed?

To you, there seems to be a disconnect but Jesus never walks away from us; He never turns away, He is, after all, Emmanuel, God with us, so it’s on you. What changed?

Think about it, reflect upon your life, for therein you just might find the answer.

Mary and Joseph didn’t lose Jesus for three days because they were irresponsible parents. They assumed that Jesus was in the caravan, among their family and close friends (Luke 2:44 ERV). They took His presence for granted, so they never bothered to check.

Don’t we also do that? Becoming so accustomed to the journey that we lose sight of Jesus? The danger being that we merrily travel along, unaware that Jesus is missing. Then when we do come to the realization that we no longer sense His presence, we start a desperate search for Him but in all the wrong places.

We seek His presence among family, close friends, priests and pastors, in church buildings and revival services but our relationship with Jesus is personal; it’s between you and Him.

Beloved, when busyness outweighs your Father’s business, when communication with Jesus is no longer a priority, when being a congregant is more important than being a convert, when proximity to Him is not paramount, when work is what you worship, when you desire dogma more than devotion and tradition over transformation, that’s when losing Jesus becomes your lot.

For three whole days, Jesus was where His Father’s work was. For three whole days Jesus was in the Temple area with the religious teachers, listening and asking them questions (Luke 2:46 ERV).

A three-day journey is symbolic of a progression toward a new spiritual beginning.

Before Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish to feed the multitude, they’d been in His presence for three whole days (see Matthew 15:32).

Before Moses threw a tree into the bitter waters of Marah to make it sweet to drink, the Israelites had travelled three whole days (see Exodus 15:22-27).

In both instances, after three days, spirits were revived.

Perhaps it’s time we each take our own three-day journey – three whole days of introspection  in our individual temples (see 1 Corinthians 3:16), spent in the presence of the Father, with the Holy Spirit, our Teacher (see John 14:26), listening and asking them questions.

 

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Losing Jesus” © 2026 October 1, 2026

 

 

 

 

A short prayer…

when you pray, I will listen – Jeremiah 29:12 (TLB)

Lord, thank You for this new day and for this new month ahead.

You tell me in Jeremiah 29:12, that when I pray, You will listen. Thank You for such a wonderful privilege.

May I be bold to come to You always and for every reason.  

Lord I do not know what the days ahead will bring or even today but I’m assured by Your Word in Isaiah 26:3, that when my mind is steadfastly focused on You and I commit myself to You, lean on You and hope confidently in You, You will guard me and keep me in perfect peace.

I thank You for that true peace that You give to me when I meditate on You, completely depend on You and trust in You.

Help me to not neglect to pray without ceasing and not just for myself but for others.

Show me what to remove from my schedule that may be a hindrance to my prayer life.

Thank You, Lord, for listening to all my prayers, those I utter aloud and those I say deep within my heart. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “A short prayer…” © 2024 (18-03-2024) October 1, 2026

 

I Believe and therefore I Speak

 

It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken. “Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak, - 2 Corinthians 4:13 (NIV)

 

I believe and therefore I speak…

 

I am held by the loving hand of Divine Providence.

 

The miracles of God’s providence take place every single day of my life…thank You God

 

God governs all things concerning me and my family.

 

I never tire of doing what is good and right before my Lord, I persist and in His season, I bring in a great harvest! Hallelujah!!!

 

All God’s promises are sure – Yes and Amen in Christ Jesus! He will never open the womb and not deliver the baby!

 

I am fully assured that what God has promised He is able to perform.

 

Not one of God’s promises which He made to me will fail – all will come to pass

 

I will never stop believing God!!!

 

I receive my promised breakthrough and there is no other explanation but, God!

 

I thank You, Lord, for being on my side, strong and mighty…

 

When I pass through deep waters, God will be with me;
my troubles will not overwhelm me.
When I pass through fire, I will not be burned;
the hard trials that come will not hurt me. Praise God!

 

You have made me see hard times: I’ve experienced many miserable days,
but You will restore me again. You will raise me up from the deep pit. Hallelujah!

 

God brings His Restoration to pass!

 

Lord, thank You for making me new again…

 

God’s love for me never fails; God never fails me! God never forsakes me!

 

God remains faithful, He cannot deny Himself

 

I am living the Best Life because God is in control! Thank You Lord!

 

All the glory belongs to God!!!

 

I acknowledge God in all my ways!

 

I trust God with my whole heart!

 

God makes my paths straight!

 

I find favour and good success in the sight of God and man

 

In everything I do, I put God first, and He directs me and crowns my efforts with success.

 

God blesses me financially – there is no lack – I put my hope in God, who richly provides me with everything for my enjoyment…thank You Lord

 

God blesses the work of my hands, my hands are diligent, and so they bring wealth…thank You Lord

 

Lord, I thank You for opening the heavens, the store house of Your bounty, to send rain on my land in season and bless all the work of my hands – I lend to many nations but borrow from none…Praise God!

 

Lord thank You for sending me wealth – I will honour You with it

 

I do not wear myself out to get rich – God supplies ALL my needs, He is the only Source of my supply

 

My riches increase substantially and I do not set my heart on them – God gives me wisdom

 

I am that faithful and wise steward

 

I obey and serve God…I spend the rest of my days in prosperity and my years in contentment

 

I trust in the Lord therefore I prosper

 

Now I have everything I want – in fact I am rich. Yes, I am quite content, thanks to your gifts received; my God has supplied all that I need from His glorious resources in Christ Jesus; glory be to my God and my Father for ever and ever, amen!

 

I believed; therefore I have spoken.

 

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “I Believe and therefore I Speak” © 2016 September 30, 2026